Hurricane Shutter Types

Automatic Rolldown Shutters

photo by Neal Dorst

These are pre-installed, PVC or metal louver shutters.
They are housed in a box above each window and roll down
along a set of tracks on either side and lock at the bottom.
If they are motorized they can be closed with the flick of a
switch. For large windows and doors reinforcing rods must be
inserted after deployment to insure shutter strength. They
may cost from $20 to $35 per square foot of window area.

Accordion Shutters

photos by Neal Dorst

These are also pre-installed. They often are housed in a
box at the side of the widnow or door, are pulled out
to deploy them, and are locked either in the middle or
to the other accordion panel. They may cost from $15 to
$25 per square foot.

Bahama Shutters

photos by Neal Dorst

These are pre-installed and function as shade when not used
for protection. Installation is performed by moving the
supports out of the way then locking the shutters down onto the
building. Prices vary, but cheaper units might not be
substantial enough to protect against flying debris.
Expect prices from $15 to $20 per square foot.

Awning Shutters

photo by Neal Dorst

Similar to Bahama shutters, but instead of a louvered shade
there is an awning which provides shade and will fold down and
fasten to the wall when a hurricane threatens. Prices are similar
to the Bahama shutters, and again cheaper version may not offer
enough protection, expect around $15 to $20 per square foot.

Storm Panel Shutters

These steel or aluminum shutters are stored away when
not in use. They usually require a steel channel on the top and
bottom of the window that must be anchored prior to installation
of the shutters. They require some physical effort to install
and may cost from $7 to $15 per square foot of coverage.

Plywood Shutters

photo by Stan Goldenberg

The least expensive alternative, but you have to make them
yourself and they can be heavy and awkward to install. They
should be made of at least 5/8 inch plywood and are fastened
to the building either with lag bolts or barrel bolts. For
more information on how to make them click
here.